Steelers, James Harrison keep negotiating but could still part ways

Steelers want LB to take pay cut to remain in Pittsburgh

UPDATED 3:24 PM EDT Mar 25, 2013

PITTSBURGH -

The Steelers continue to negotiate a new deal with linebacker James Harrison, but as the Tuesday start of free agency nears, there's a growing possibility the 2008 Defensive Player of the Year could find himself on the market.

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Ed Bouchette reports the Steelers want Harrison to take a pay cut, but the two sides are struggling to reach an agreement. Harrison, who turns 35 in May, is due a $6.57 million salary this season and more than $7.5 million in 2014.

"We absolutely want to do this, we absolutely want to be in Pittsburgh," Harrison's agent, Bill Parise, told Bouchette.

The NFL's new calendar year begins at 4 p.m. Tuesday, which is when the Steelers need to be in compliance with the salary cap and a decision on whether Harrison returns will likely be made.

Harrison missed the first three games of last season while recovering from knee surgery, but he finished the season with a team-leading six sacks.

Steelers free agent tracker: Who's staying and leaving?

1 of 28

The Pittsburgh Steelers have some tough roster decisions to make in 2013. Who has played their last game in Black & Gold? Here is the current list of free agent signings.